More commonly associated with time spent outdoors - because sunlight contains UV and blue light - the region’s soaring smartphone usage and technology adoption rates mean it is now becoming an issue inside the home and workplace too.
Speaking to us that the In-Cosmetics Asia show in Bangkok, DSM’s regional director for personal care and aroma ingredients in Asia Pacific Yusuke Saito said the challenge faced by blue light exposure to technology was that the damage it causes is not immediately visible.
Visibility awareness
“When you go outside and you are in the sun you can very quickly see the damage it can cause. Yet indoors this is not the case."
“But we are seeing that consumers are getting far more knowledgeable about this now and the issue is getting a lot of media attention.”
DSM was promoting its ‘In and Out Skincare solution’.
This is a formulation that contains UV filters such as PARSOL Max, which extends UV protection in the blue wavelength range, Niacinamide PC, which counteracts oxidative stress, and a new microalgal bioactive called PEPHA-AGE, which stimulates the skin’s own defence.
Key market need
“That fact that this single product protects against UV, blue light and pollution is the key,” added Saito.
“These are three of the biggest concerns we see in Asia and we think the holistic approach this product can offer is very special.”
He added the product was suitable for a broad range of applications and emphasised the importance of night care products. Quite often, the last thing people do at night and the first thing they do in a morning is to check their smartphones he said.
“We think there are huge opportunities for this product globally, but Asia is a key focus,” added Fabrice Guillemard, regional marketing lead for personal care in APAC.
“For example, in Thailand whitening products are very popular so this will resonate with consumers."
Lifestyle factors
“Also, when you look across Asia we have some of the longest working hours which is increasing the exposure to blue light indoors.”
The product was first launched at In-Cosmetics Global in London in April, and Saito said manufacturer interest had been high.
“Customers are looking at this and there are developments in the pipeline. The fact that there is now a lot of research on the dangers of blue light and the growing consumer understanding is really helping.”